Installing a new gutter or fascia covers can really help to improve the appeal of your property. However, because installing gutters and fascia covers means working up high, it is vital that you take steps to protect yourself from injury. Below is a guide to everything you need to know about staying safe while installing fascia covers and gutters on your property. Read on to learn more.
Always have a buddy around
The first rule of installing fascia covers or gutters on your property is that you should always have a buddy around. Not only can a buddy keep you company, but they can also help to keep you safe. The primary job of your buddy will be to hold the base of the ladder to ensure it does not slip when you are using it to install the guttering of fascia covers. Secondly, your buddy will also be able to check that the fascia covers and guttering looks good from ground level.
Be aware of overhead wires
Before you erect the ladder, you should check that there are no overhead power lines nearby that pose the risk of electrocution. It is also important to remember that electrical energy can jump through the air, so you do not need to touch a power line to be in danger. If you have any doubts, you should contact a professional contractor.
Use a correctly sized ladder
When choosing a ladder, you should always pick one that is long enough to comfortably reach the edge of the roof space. You should never attempt to install guttering or covers using a ladder that is too short. Doing so will mean you need to stretch to reach the area you are working on. Stretching is a significant cause of accidents as it increases the chance that you will lose your balance and fall from the ladder.
Keep one hand on the ladder
When working, you should always keep one hand on the ladder. While it can be tempting to use both hands to hold the guttering or covers in place as you install them, doing so greatly increases the risk that you will fall from the ladder. You should never hook yourself to the ladder to free up your hands. If you have attached yourself to the ladder and it begins to fall, you will not have the opportunity to jump clear or to grab onto the roof before you are pulled down.
If you would like further information about staying safe during fascia cover installation, you should contact a contractor today.
